In just over a week I’ll be taking off for a Washington DC and New York City tour jam-packed with attractions we typically include in Washington DC educational student tours, NYC grad trips, and some of our themes like NYC fashion tours. Since we’re the people who help you build the tours, I thought you might like a sneak peak at some of the obvious and not-so-obvious attractions we’re fitting in.

Mount Vernon

With so many wonderful sights on the National Mall in the heart of Washington D.C., you may not think to add this beautiful estate just outside of it, but Mount Vernon is an amazing part of our history. You’ll be amazed at the many pieces preserved and showcased on this tour, from the kitchen and its history of delicious goodies always available to guests to its slave quarters and the view from its famous cupola. Mt. Vernon was, of course, the home of George and Martha Washington, and the elegant hospitality of these prominent American figures still permeates this estate.

Old Post Office Tower

When I saw the itinerary, this one was new for me. I knew about the monuments and memorials, Capitol Hill, and the White House. I also knew a long list of amazing museums. The Old Post Office is perhaps a combination of all that. It’s got history, stunning architecture, a spirit of innovation, and even more – it’s got food. You’ll love the clock tower, this amazing historical landmark, and your refreshing meal inside.

Illuminations Tour

I’ve written about this DC tradition a hundred times, probably, but I can’t help thinking of it now. Definitely don’t pack your days so full that you can’t take a little time to enjoy the Lincoln Memorial, and those around it, in their brilliant light after dark.

Tommy Hilfiger and Hugo Boss

Now on to New York City where we’re taking in all the classics like the Empire State Building, Times Square, the Met, and Rockefeller Center. But we’re also taking in these attractions which get added to our New York City fashion tours. The tours take guests inside a fashion powerhouse to learn all about and experience the world of this amazing industry.

Blue Man Group

When you think of New York City and entertainment, I’m guessing you either think rock concert or Broadway. Blue Man Group is somewhere in between. It’s a crazy, theatrical party that employs comedy, innovation, lights and color, music, and so much more to create an experience like no other.

This is a first-time trip for some of us, so we’re not exactly exploring off the beaten path. After all, for first timers, the beaten path is pretty cool. Here are some of the other biggies on our list.

In D.C.

Arlington National Cemetery – The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a favorite part.

Capitol Hill – We usually help arrange a meeting with your member of congress for this part.

Smithsonian – So many museums, so little time. But we’ll get a glimpse of as many of them as we can.

Any time you build a tour, you have to consider your own goals and intentions. Choose the attractions you want to see most and make sure you’ve figured in enough time for them. Make the trip about your group’s interests and schedule it at a pace you’re sure they can handle. It’s impossible to see everything or to please everyone, but with a little thought you can create an exciting and memorable tour.

In New York

Top of the Rock – The observation deck at the top of 30 Rockefeller Center

Broadway – Besides the Blue Man Group, we’re catching two classic Broadway plays as well.

American Museum of Natural History – One of NYC’s favorite museums.

Photo by Alexander Smolianitski on Flickr.